"We need to cover all Canada with this decision, which is why the federal government is moving forward on a science based approach to establishing which harmful single-use plastics we will eliminate as of 2021," said Trudeau.

"Whether we're talking about plastic bottles or cellphones, it will be up to businesses to take responsibility for the plastics they're manufacturing and putting out in the world," the prime minister added.

Trudeau will take this initiative if he is still around. He is facing a national election later this year, and opposition Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer made humor what he called "another gesture without a plan" by a "government clutching at straws."

It is estimated that residents of the Great White North discard 34 million plastic bags each day. Seattle was a pioneer in banning single use plastics.

"We've all seen the disturbing images of fish, sea turtles, whales and other wildlife being injured or dying because of plastic garbage in our oceans," said Catherine McKenna, Canada's Minister of the Environment.

The Trudeau government, with support of other parties, took one more environmental initiative on Monday.

The House of Commons passed a ban on keeping whales, dolphins and porpoises in captivity anywhere in Canada.

"This is a good day for animals in Canada," said Elizabeth May, a member of parliament from Vancouver Island and Green Party leader in the House of Commons.